Everything You Need to Know About Your DOT Physical

If you’re a commercial driver, you know that staying healthy isn’t just important for your well-being — it’s required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The Department of Transportation (DOT) physical is a mandatory exam that ensures you’re fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

Not all doctors can perform DOT physicals — only those certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are qualified to conduct the exam. Certified medical examiners have specialized training to assess whether you meet the health and safety requirements for commercial driving.

If you need a DOT physical, look no further than Dr. Bamba's Health and Medical Center. Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, is a certified medical examiner and is happy to offer DOT exams at our Glen Burnie, Maryland, office.

In the meantime, read on to learn more about DOT exams and how to prepare for yours.

What is a DOT physical?

A DOT physical is a medical exam required by the FMCSA for commercial drivers. It evaluates your overall health and ability to meet the physical demands of operating a commercial vehicle.

The goal is to make sure that medical conditions won’t interfere with your ability to drive safely — for your sake and others on the road.

What to expect during your exam

Dr. Bamba will conduct a thorough physical exam during your DOT exam. She may assess your:

Vision and hearing

You must meet minimum vision and hearing standards to drive safely. Bring your corrective lenses or hearing aids if you use them.

Blood pressure and heart health

High blood pressure can affect your certification, so managing it ahead of time is essential.

If your blood pressure is high, it doesn’t mean that you automatically fail your exam. Dr. Bamba may be able to help you safely manage high blood pressure with lifestyle changes and/or medication.

Note: If you have hypertension, follow Dr. Bamba’s recommendations, take medications as prescribed, and avoid caffeine or heavy salt intake before your exam

Urinalysis

A urine test screens for underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney issues.

Neurological and musculoskeletal issues

The exam checks for conditions that could impact your ability to control a vehicle, such as nerve disorders, muscle weakness, or balance issues.

Past medical history

You’ll also review your medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, or past surgeries that might impact your ability to drive.

What about blood work or drug screens?

A DOT exam doesn’t typically include a full blood panel unless additional testing is required based on your medical history.

If you have diabetes, you may need to provide additional documentation (including your most recent A1C results) or demonstrate that your condition is well-managed to meet DOT health requirements.

If needed, our in-house phlebotomist can draw your blood.

Likewise, a standard DOT physical doesn’t include a drug test, but many employers require one simultaneously. DOT-mandated drug testing is separate and follows strict federal guidelines, screening for substances like marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP.

If your employer requires a drug test along with your physical, you’ll provide a urine sample that is sent to a certified lab for analysis.

The bottom line is that if you need additional documentation (such as demonstrating that your diabetes is well-controlled), Dr. Bamba can walk you through the next steps.

What happens after your exam?

If you pass your DOT physical, you’ll receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), which is valid for up to 24 months. If you have a condition that requires monitoring, your certificate may be issued for a shorter period.

If there are concerns about your health, you may need further testing or clearance before receiving certification.

Tips to prepare for your exam

If you’re getting ready for your DOT exam, first things first: relax! We are experts in DOT physicals, and we’ve helped hundreds of people through this process.

To make the process run even smoother:

Wear your hearing aids or glasses
Bring necessary documentation, including a list of your current medications, past medical history, and any required medical clearance forms
Stay hydrated (dehydration can affect your urinalysis)
Avoid heavy drinking
Consider smoking cessation

If you’re unsure if you need additional documentation — such as a three-month CPAP compliance report if you have sleep apnea or A1C reports if you have diabetes — don’t hesitate to ask us. We’re more than happy to help you prepare for your exam.

Get your DOT physical done right

If it’s time for your DOT physical, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bamba at 443-493-7760.

You can also click here to book your next physical.